Cheap Eats Toronto restaurant guide blog

Vintages Value List Release Saturday Sept. 4, 2010

Greetings All!

It is a great release coming your way this weekend – wines hailing from the southern Rhône valley from the spectacular 2007 vintage. Most of the wines from the southern Rhône appellations are blends which predominantly include Grenache and Syrah. The Rhône terroir produces terrific earthy, berry notes that are distinctly dry and Old World in nature. Don’t miss out on the values from this exceptional vintage.

WHITE WINE

499509 Perrin & Fils Réserve Côtes Du Rhône Blanc 2009 (Rhône) $14.95

This medium bodied southern belle features peach and floral flavours with some herbaceous notes. Nicely balanced and quite pleasing.

Vintages Value List Release August 21, 2010

Greetings All!

We are sorry for the lapse in newsletters last release. We took a brief hiatus from tasting to give our palates a rest. We went happily back to the tasting room refreshed and revived and discovered several terrific selections. Enjoy!

WHITE WINE

171108 Ducourt Réserve De Famille Sauvignon Gris 2008 (Bordeaux) $12.95

We thought this was an excellent food-friendly white that is priced just right. It is an unusual grape – Sauvignon Gris – a cousin of Sauvignon Blanc. It is also unusual as it hails from Bordeaux – a region known for its iconic red blends. Regardless, it is an excellent value! Have it with chicken, fish or lighter pasta dishes.

64177 Angove Long Row Chardonnay 2008 (South Australia) $13.95

This Aussie Chard isn’t too big but it has seen a hint of oak. It has an interesting nose of apricot and pie crust with a nice clean finish.

Bay Adelaide Centre Farmers’ Market

by Guest Market Blogger Andrea Toole

On Thursdays Financial District workers are greeted by a new farmer's market in the Bay Adelaide Centre, Arnell Plaza.

A satellite location of the Evergreen Brick Works farmer's market, it's a new hub for the farmers, artisans and restaurants who feed hundreds at their market on Saturdays. Thursday's location welcomes a convergence of the usual farmer's market enthusiasts and food lovers with downtown workers, people of every profession seeking something tasty for lunch or something to take home.

In writing notes about the market for this piece I scrawled, tongue-in-cheek, "Pick up a sandwich or a stockbroker, bread or babe, cupcake or cutie".  "Apples or accountants"?  Not that it's a meet-market disguised as a meat-market. It's a gathering for people who want to try something different at lunch. It’s an excuse – no, a reason - to leave the desk and bask in the sunshine while connecting with local food producers such as farmers and chefs. It’s the Brick Works market, only much smaller than the grandiose Saturday market.

Interested in buying meat from grass-fed animals raised on Ontario farms without hormones or antibiotics? How about fresh salads? Sustainably harvested fish such as line caught haddock, rod and reel tuna or harpooned swordfish? Fresh lemonade?  Local honey? I wish I could write about each and every vendor.

August Food Festivals 2010 Toronto

August is filled with great festival, cultural events and of course the ever popular Beer Festival!  Let’s start with that one:

August 5-8 - Toronto’s Festival of Beer 

Over 120 brands of beer onsite including seasonal brews from some of our favourite local brewers. This is Canada’s premier celebration of the golden beverage! 
This is a 19+ event.

Click for more details

August 6-8 – Taste of the Danforth

The Taste of the Danforth is a perennial favourite with locals and visitors alike.  The Danforth is overrun with street vendors selling freshly grilled souvlaki, sushi and beer.  People, food and fun fill the street from Broadview to Jones Avenues.

Click for more details

August 6-8 – Waterfront Night Market

Night Markets – where East meets West under a moonlit summer night sky.  Smells of barbecue pork, beef and sizzling vegetables  waft through the air. Steaming bamboo baskets invite the hungry crowds to sample from the stalls offering hot dumplings, spicy chicken or oyster pancakes and much, much more.

Click for more details

Timothy's - Gone.

Timothy's - Gone.
Originally uploaded by LexnGer.

A quick ride by Timothy's today showed that they are most definitely gone.
The folks behind the Butter Chicken Factory were just putting up their "Opening Soon" sign and said that after 5 weeks work, they'll be another 2 before they open.
Having seen restaurant project plans - estimated and actual - I suspect it might be a little longer than 2 weeks... but you never know.

Vintage Value List for July 24, 2010

Greetings All!

Hip hip hooray – more wine coming your way and this time the feature is “Southern belles”. These “southern belles” are not of the mint julep variety from our southern neighbour – but great selections from Southern France aka Midi. It is the span of France that borders the Mediterranean between Italy & Spain and the climate and terroir produce a wide variety of pleasant blends from many different and often unusual varietals. We find the wines from the Midi to be quite pretty and their prices are generally lower than wines from more iconic French regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy.

We hope you enjoy this week’s selections!

WHITE WINE

178426 Domaine De Sancet 2008 (Southwest France) $11.95

The price is right for this citrus, herbaceous and fruity number. We know – it sounds complex and it is a bit – but utterly delicious nonetheless!

168344 Faustino V Blanco Viura 2008 (DOCa Rioja) $12.95

Lemon, pear and apple are the up-front flavours. This fruity start ends with a hint of minerality. Don’t be swayed by the picture of the ancient old fart on the label – he is Faustino the Fifth. His current kin seem to know a thing or two about wine-making!

74112 Agriverde Riseis Pecorino 2008 (Abruzzo, Italy) $13.95

Pecorino not to be confused with the cheese of the same name is a vine species believed to belong to the Trebbiano variety. It is a vine which flourished in central Italy over the centuries and has been making a resurgence in recent years. This pretty little number is unctuous and flavourful with savoury and peppery notes. It is food friendly and will pair well with roast chicken.

Our New Intern From Korea

I'm pleased and delighted to introduce you to our new intern here at Plethora Press, Gwanghyung "David" Lee. David has been working with us since mid-June and though he is only here until early August, we've really enjoyed having him in the office.

David has a great sense of humour and it has been fascinating to see "Canadian food" from a new perspective.

So it seemed time to do a more formal introduction in the form of an interview.

Who are you and where are you from?

My name is Gwanghyung Lee. But I use the English name "David" here. I'm still a student in Korea. So, you already know that I'm from Korea. Perhaps, you may be curious about why I am here. I am here to learn English and it is going well so far with Alexa's help.

What do you do at Plethora Press?

Work hard. Obey Alexa. Frankly, I help Alexa with book orders, blog posts and so on.

Where is your home town and what is it's signature dish?

Hmm... My home town is Jochiwon in Korea. This town is very small. I think around 30 thousand people live there. Although, my home town is small, we have a nice signature dish. That is Pa-Dak which is made of chicken and green onions. Basically, Pa-Dak means green onions and chicken in Korean. Perhaps, you are wondering how we make it or how we eat it. Let me explain this.

Vintages Value List for July 10, 2010

Hello there fellow tipplers!

It’s getting hot out there – time to hit the patio or dock to sit back and CHILL! This weekend’s release focuses on popular picks of yore. There are plenty of great wines hitting the shelves this weekend that we have recommended in the past. This newsletter will highlight new selections at great prices – but when you browse the Vintages aisles keep your eyes peeled for past picks. Hopefully the label will call out to you!

WHITE WINE

164624 Michel Delhommeau Cuvee Harmonie Muscadet de Sevre et Maine 2008 (Loire Valley, France) $12.95

Distinct lime and grapefruit notes segue to a smooth minerality. Parker scored this one 91. Good value here!

Vintages Value List Release Saturday June 26, 2010

Greetings All!

OK, we are re-neging on our promise of a shortened list. Why? Well, the bargains are irresistible this week. So we’ll keep this preamble short & sweet so you can get on to the good stuff below. ENJOY!

WHITE WINE

175240 Domaine Du Tariquet Classic Ugni Blanc/Colombard 2009 (Southwest France) $11.95

P is for pleasure in this number, get past the nose and you will be rewarded with flavours of lime, mineral and spritzy acidity

166751 Bodegas Agnusdei Terra Firm Albariño 2008 (DO Rias Baixas) $13.95

Hola….this beauty is fresh and earthy exuding a pretty floral nose and flavours of stone fruit, apple and citrus bursting of crisp acidity.

163980 Two Tracks Sauvignon Blanc 2009 (New Zealand) $16.95

This lovely number is unctuous and rich exuding aromas of grass, pea pods following through on the palate balanced out by citrus on the finish.

ROSE

71084 La Bastide Blanche Bandol Rosé 2009 (Provence) $21.95

Wow, we just looked at each other and uttered DELISH! A blend of Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault this fresh tasting beauty screams strawberry, rhubarb and floral and an ample finish.

July Food Festivals 2010

June 30-July 4 - Toronto Ribfest

Woo Hoo - Ribfest! Beer tents, ribs, yum yum yum. 

Hours:  11am–11pm
Cost: free admission
Place: Centennial Park Rd, Etobicoke  

July 2-4 - Taste of Lawrence
Three days of music, dance and family activities, food is the real highlight of this annual festival.

Hours: 2nd: 6pm-11pm, 3rd: 11am-11pm, 4th: 11am-6pm
Cost: free admission
Place: Lawrence Avenue East, from Warden Avenue to Birchmount Rd. Toronto

July 3-4 - Corso Italia Toronto Fiesta 

13 years and still going strong, the Corso Italia Toronto Fiesta is a wonderful  opportunity for the whole family to experience the food and culture of Toronto's own Corso Italia. Food and beverage retailers will offer a mouth-watering selection of tastes and flavours, with promotions and samples of their cuisine.

Hours: 1pm-11pm on 3rd, 1pm-9pm on 4th
Cost: free admission
Place: St.Clair Ave. W, Toronto

July 9-25 – Summerlicious

Now in it's 8th year, 150 restaurants across Toronto offering three-course prix fixe menus from July 9 to 25.  Reservations will be accepted starting June 24

Hours: depends on restaurant
Cost: $15,$20 or &25 lunch menus & $25, $35 or $45 dinner menus
Place: depends on restaurant

July 10-11 – Afrofest

Afrofest is a free celebration of African music and culture presented by Music Africa and held annually in Queen’s Park in downtown Toronto. 

Hours: 11am-10:30pm
Cost: free admission
Place: Queen's Park, Toronto

July 13- Aug 2 - Caribana
Caribana is back for its 43rd year celebrating the music, cuisine and arts of the Caribbean region.  Caribana specials and deals all over the city

Hours: 12pm-2pm(13th), 10am-6pm(31st) 
Cost: free admission
Place: Younge & Dundas Square(13th), Exhibition Place & Lakeshore Boulevard(31st)

July 14- Aug 25 - Fresh Wednesdays
Live music and a farmers' market fill up Nathan Phillip's Square every Wednesday. Yum yum.

Hours: "Farmers' Market June 2 – October 13 Wednesdays 10am–2pm
Cost: free admission
Place: Nathan Phillips Square 100 Queen Street W. Toronto

July 15- Aug 26 - Tasty Thursdays

Toronto restaurants will be featuring select menu items for five dollars or less.

Hours: Tasty Food Thursdays 11am–2pm
Tastes: $5 or less
Place: Nathan Phillips Square 100 Queen Street W. Toronto

July 17-18 - Salsa on St. Clair 
Showcasing of the very best of Latin life: pulsating music fiery foods and world class wines.

Hours: 12pm-11pm(17th), 12pm-8pm(18th)
Cost: free admission
Place: West of Bathurst Street between Christie St and Winona Drive

July 17-18 - Tastes of Thailand 2010
Celebrate the King's 83th birthday and experience traditional Songkran festival at the Tastes of Thailand.  Food from 10 "Thai-selected" restaurants, cooking demonstrations, Thai fruits, dances, fashion show and kick-boxing demos.  Should be fascinating and tasty.

Hours: Starts 17th 11am ends 18th 7pm
Cost: free admission
Place: Nathan Phillips Square 100 Queen Street West Queen & Bay Streets

July 17-18 – 38th Annual Festival of India
A unique and colourful event you don't want to miss. Free vegetarian feast, exhibits, dances, dramas (of the theatrical kind I'm hoping), yoga and meditation. Even a parade along Yonge and Bloor and travelling over to Centre Island.

Hours: coming soon
Cost: free admission
Place: Parade site-Yonge and Asquith, Festival site-Bay and Queensquay and then take the ferry to the island

July 23-25 – Masala! Mehndi! Masti!
One of my favourite festivals of the summer Masala! Mehndi! Masti! is back at Exhibition Place... yes! Exhibition Place.

Hours: Starts 23rd 6pm Ends 25th 10pm
Cost: coming soon
Place: Exibition Place, 200 Princes' Boulevard, Toronto

July 25 - PS Kensington 
Pedestrian-only streets in Kensington Market - last Sunday of every month from May to October plus a mid-month Pedestrian Sunday for the 7th anniversary of the Blackout. Celebrate 7th season of Pedestrian Sundays in 2010!!

Hours: 12pm-7 pm(10pm on North Augusta)
Cost: free admission
Place: Kensington Market, Toronto

July 25 – Brazilfest  
Come enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Brazil at the 7th annual Brazilian  Summer Festival this summer. A real Carnival in Toronto, with music, happiness and the unique touch of Brazilian friendship for all.
BrazilFest will feature the best of Brazil's music and dance, reflecting the best of Brazilian culture. 

Hours: 12pm-10pm
Cost: free admission
Place: Earlscourt Park(St. Clair Ave W. & Caledonia Rd), Toronto

July 29– The 3rd Annual Craft Beef Festival & Summer BBQ  
(date corrected!)
Sample some of the best craft brewed ales, lagers and pilsners that Canada has to offer while relaxing in one of Toronto’s most impressive and historic settings.

Hours: 7pm-12am
Cost: $35 Adult / $25 Student
Place: Hart House, University of Toronto 7 Hart House Circle Toronto

We'd love to hear what you thought of these festivities, and please let us know if we missed anything in your neighbourhood or any of your favourites!!

The Village Market at the Toronto Waldorf School

                                                          by Guest Market Blogger Sandy Avvari

I have driven past this large sign many times since I moved to the area. The Village Market selling organic produce and food at the Toronto Waldorf School?

Hmmm… my vegetarian taste buds were intrigued! Finally, about a month ago I set my alarm early on a Saturday morning and drive down the street to check it out. I was greeted by the beautiful sight of the Toronto Waldorf School campus which sits down in a valley near Bathurst and Rutherford in Thornhill. The market opens at 8:30 am and by the time I got there at 9 am the parking lot was already almost full!

I walked inside and was amazed at the amount of activity early in the morning. The Village Market is a busy place with people of all ages rushing around to get first pick at the goods from the vendors. On average, there are 25 vendors at the market each week, selling organic fruits, vegetables, meats, baked goods and other natural products. There is also a small food court area which sells ready-to-eat foods and has a small sitting area.

Ottawa Farmers’ Market 2010

                                                           by Guest Market Blogger Vicky Weiss 

I grew up in Ottawa but haven’t lived there for many many years now (ok over 20 years) but my parents still live there and I try to visit as often as I can.

I not only see my parents, but now I meet my twitter foodie friends as well i.e @FoodiePrints and @cestboncooking. On a visit to Ottawa recently they suggested that instead of meeting for brunch, that we should meet at the Ottawa Farmers’ Market which is located at Lansdowne Park.

Naturally I agreed, seeing as I had never been and it was about time!!

The first thing that struck me about the Ottawa Farmers’ Market was the size of it.

There’s A LOT of vendors, scattered nicely on a huge parking lot.

There is also a nice variety of vendors.

I would like to take an educated guess and say that there is almost 50 percent fruit and vegetable (plus meat, cheese and bread) vendors and 50 percent prepared foods.

I decided to check out the prepared foods this visit. It wasn’t a hard decision!!

Port Credit Farmer's Market - Year Two Summer 2010

                                                             by Guest Market Blogger Jeff Gignac

It has been a long winter since the final days of the first annual Port Credit Farmer’s Market (PCFM) closed. But today, June 5th, year two begins.

The Port Credit Farmer’s Market is the newest in Mississauga’s Farmer’s Market. With the second year, there is more excitement toward this year’s PCFM.

I arrived this morning to see some familiar vendors from last year. Vendors such as Cheeseofcanada.ca, La Villa Bakery (http://www.lavillabakery.com/ ) and Desitnation Cafe (www.DesitnationCafe.ca) where I get more organic coffee from during the winter months. J & S Farms had a wide selection of fresh fruits and vegetables. Blyleven Farms is back with some great flowers and potted plants (for my mom). Evergreen Aces Nursery is also back with some nice plants. For my kids I picked up some fresh strawberries from Thames River Melons. Other returning vendors will be back in the coming weeks.

Vintages Value List Release Saturday June 12, 2010

Greetings All!

Hope you are doing well these days. It’s a South African centric release and we will be restricting our consumption from that country to the FIFA World Cup. We just don’t care for products from that region! On a more positive note, we have decided to limit our Vintages Value Lists to our top picks. Our lists have been getting out of hand and we have to reign in our enthusiasm on the recommendations. SO – from hereon you are getting our absolute faves – lucky you!

SPARKLING WINE

171785 Mausberg Blancs de Blancs Brut Crémant D’Alsace (Alsace) $17.95

Fun, light and easy drinking bubbly featuring fresh tart apple and biscuits and an ever so creamy mouth feel making for an awesome sipper.

Vintages Value List Release Saturday May 29, 2010

Greetings All!

Looks like its official – summer’s here!!! It was an awesome May2-4 despite the dismal weather prognostications and now it is steamy hot – an abrupt segue to summer for sure. BBQ’s are in full force – so we have plenty of hearty reds that will go well with that steak. We have also recommended a couple of roses – great partners for grilled fish & shellfish or just solo sipping at dusk in the backyard or on the dock (once the black flies have gone). There are a good variety of whites on our list – from big to pretty.

This week Vintages’ thematic is “the Mighty Mendoza & gems from the Loire Valley). Vintages has brought us the requisite Argentinean Malbecs from Mendoza – but they have also brought in other grape varietals that are thriving in that high altitude, totally sunny wine region. Whites from the Loire are little known to most Ontarians. The main varietals are Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc. Loire’s terroir provides a Sauv. Blanc that is a little more subtle than those from New Zealand. Chenin Blanc can be dry or off-dry with peach, citrus and floral notes.

SPARKLING WINE

168963 Château Moncontour Cuvée Prédilection Brut Vouvray (France) $18.95

Affordable fizz made in the traditional method in the Loire from Chenin Blanc featuring aromas of biscuit, pretty spring flowers and stone fruit. Nicely textured with a refreshing brace of acidity. Sparkling wine pairs nicely with all foods, no need to have something to celebrate to open a bottle of bubbly at this price.